Start Valuing Your Mess: Why Rough Edges Build Real Connection

Written By Drew English

Drew tries something new this episode, reading his latest newsletter aloud and adding real-time commentary. The result is a raw, honest exploration of what it means to build something creative without having all the answers. He gets personal about a professionally difficult year, shares why polished content might be losing its edge, and makes the case that your rough edges might be exactly what your audience is looking for.

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Takeaways

Messy is a feature, not a bug. In an age where AI can generate "good enough" content instantly, your unique perspective and real experiences become your greatest assets. People are searching for authentic voices, not another optimized piece of content.

The fear versus reality gap is where opportunity lives. We're all afraid that showing our struggles will cost us credibility. But the paradox is that vulnerability creates connection, and connection is what makes people actually care about what you're building.

You are not your thoughts. Just because you're questioning everything and considering a thousand possibilities doesn't mean any of it defines you. Working through uncertainty in public can benefit others going through similar transitions.

Community matters more than perfection. The people who keep showing up for you aren't responding to your best work. They're responding to your most real work.

Links & Resources

Drew English
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Building Creative Community & ConnectHV in the Hudson Valley | Jordan Koschei